Solar Panels Cost $2.4k-$12k in Alamogordo, NM | September, 2024
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How much do solar panels cost in Alamogordo, NM in 2024?
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Going solar averages out to $3.53 per watt in Alamogordo, NM in the month of September, 2024.
Utilizing this rate per watt, we can conclude that for every 1000 watts (1 kW) of solar generation capacity will require an investment of $3,530 for installation. In Alamogordo, the cost of a 5 kW system is generally $12,355, after the 30% federal tax credit. It's worth noting that a larger system might be required to satisfy your energy requirements.
By selecting your county on the left, you can determine the average roof size and the maximum capacity for residential solar on homes in your area. See below a detailed summary of the {price|costs, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system in your county.
Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Alamogordo: $12,355US Average: $12,598
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Alamogordo: 12 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Alamogordo: $3,669US Average: $15,732
Solar Potential in Alamogordo
Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in Alamogordo.
Roof size 947sq. ft.
Capacity 13.25kW DC
Electricity 21.9kkWh AC per yr.
Electricity Costs in Alamogordo, NM & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing
For Alamogordo energy consumers, the standard monthly kWh usage is 581, with an average electric bill of $88.83. Compact houses, such as studio apartments or condos, are also encompassed in the figures cited in the previous sentence.
The mean rate for electricity in Alamogordo, NM in September, 2024 is 15.29¢ per kWh.
In Alamogordo, a system size of 4 kW or larger is needed for the typical energy consumer to account for all of their power demands. At the moment, a 4 kW setup costs around $14,120, but with a 30% tax credit, it is reduced to $9,884
Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.
Average solar panel costs by system size in Alamogordo
To the left and below, you can find a detailed pricing breakdown for different solar panel system sizes set up in Alamogordo. Although a bigger solar installation has a greater cost, it also yields increased electricity savings and more substantial income tax credits.
Check the solar panel cost calculator to the right and below to see the cost and benefit details based on an average $88.83 electric bill in Alamogordo. Just change the $88.83 to your regular electricity bill for more accurate results.
System Size
Roof Size Min. space required
Electricity Value Annual Production
Est. Price
System Size 1kW
Roof Size Min. space required
72 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $285 a year
Est. Price
$2,471
Savings from a 1kWthis system
Est. yearly production 1,897 kWh
Est. monthly savings $24
Full payback in 2 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.33 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 61 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 3,280 mi less a year
System Size 2kW
Roof Size Min. space required
143 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $569 a year
Est. Price
$4,942
Savings from a 2kWthis system
Est. yearly production 3,795 kWh
Est. monthly savings $47
Full payback in 5 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.65 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 122 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 6,559 mi less a year
System Size 3kW
Roof Size Min. space required
215 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $854 a year
Est. Price
$7,413
Savings from a 3kWthis system
Est. yearly production 5,692 kWh
Est. monthly savings $71
Full payback in 7 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.98 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 183 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 9,839 mi less a year
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,138 a year
Est. Price
$9,884
Savings from a 4kWthis system
Est. yearly production 7,590 kWh
Est. monthly savings $89
Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.97 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 228 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 12,307 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,423 a year
Est. Price
$12,355
Savings from a 5kWthis system
Est. yearly production 9,487 kWh
Est. monthly savings $89
Full payback in 12 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.97 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 228 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 12,307 mi less a year
Alamogordo Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024
For rural farms and small businesses, the REAP Grant might currently cover between 80% and 100% of the expenses for installing photovoltaic or wind energy systems. Wondering if you qualify? Our REAP Grant eligibility tool can help you check.
For residential solar installations, almost all homeowners qualify for a 30% federal income tax credit, which makes solar energy a feasible choice in many parts of the country. State and local governments have various programs to further encourage the switch to solar energy.
New Mexico has 13 solar incentive and rebate programs available through a range of utilities and government bodies.
Solar incentives in NMIncentive Description Value
PNM - Performance-Based Solar Program
Value:Varies
PNM may enter power purchase agreements with solar PV, thermal, and HVAC customers to obtain credits toward the state's renewable portfolio standard. Qualifying systems may be rated for up to 100 kW of capacity. As compensation for ownership of the customer's RECs, PNM will apply bill credits based on the current value of an individual REC and the amount of energy generated by the solar panels. Should an earned bill credit exceed consumption liability, it will roll forward to subsequent months. Agreements last for eight years by default, but they may be extended for larger systems. Additional information is available from the PNM website.
Sustainable Building Tax Credit (Personal)
Value:Varies
In New Mexico, new single or multi-family homes which meet certain green construction standards may be eligible for personal income tax credits. Eligible homes must qualify for ENERGY STAR certification or a minimum LEED Silver certification level and pursue formal accreditation from the US Department of Energy/Green Building Council. Once a building is certified, the owner may apply for the credit through the Department of Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources. The amount of the credit will be determined on a rubric considering the specific certification obtained and the square footage of the property. Additional information is available from the EMNR website.
Solar Energy Gross Receipts Tax Deduction
Value:Varies
In New Mexico, active and passive solar water heating and HVAC equipment are exempt from state gross receipt tax. Gross receipt tax is similar to sales tax and is an assessment of the total of annual business receipts after expenses. Certain trombe walls and water tanks may also qualify for the exemption if they meet certain technical specifications. Customers do not have to do anything to claim the exemption. Retailers should present a completed form RPD41341 for the system to the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department. Additional information is available from the NMTRD website.
Renewable Portfolio Standard
Value:Varies
New Mexico first established a renewable portfolio standard in 2004 to set goals for alternative energy investment. In 2020, at least 20% of the state's retail electricity was required to be sourced renewably. Over the long term, 50% of retail electricity must be renewable by 2030, and all of the state's electricity must be emission-free by 2045. Carve-out provisions require portions of annual renewable energy investment to use solar and wind technologies. Compliance is measured through a Renewable Energy Credit (REC) system pegging a fixed amount of electricity to a fluctuating dollar value. All operations renewable energy systems in the state generate RECs, which utilities must procure through net metering and power purchasing agreements. For failure to meet the annual REC quota, a utility will be charged penalty fines for each kilowatt hour they are deficient.
Solar/Wind Construction Permitting Standards
Value:Varies
Contractors supervising the installation or repair of a solar or wind energy system in New Mexico should have the proper license from the state board. Valid licenses include EE-98 and ER-1. Workers performing the installation or repair of a solar or wind energy system should have an EE-98J or ER-1J journeyman's license. Provisions are made for apprentices who will be supervised by a journeyman. All new wind turbines are required to undergo a structural engineering analysis. Solar PV systems may need an analysis if they exceed a minimum weight, use a unique mounting strategy, are mounted on a roof with over-spanned structures, or if structural changes are needed. Analysis results are required for a permit to be approved.
Sustainable Building Tax Credit (Corporate)
Value:Varies
In New Mexico, new commercial buildings which meet certain green construction standards may be eligible for corporate income tax credits. Eligible buildings must qualify for a minimum LEED Silver certification level and pursue formal accreditation from the US Department of Energy/Green Building Council. Once a building is certified, the owner may apply for the credit through the Department of Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources. The amount of the credit will be determined on a rubric considering the specific certification obtained and the square footage of the property. Additional information is available from the EMNR website.
Clean Energy Revenue Bond Program
Value:Varies
By a 2005 act of the New Mexico legislature, the state may use bonds to finance new renewable energy investment or energy efficiency upgrades for state buildings and public schools. Funding recipients have a 10-year window to make improvements suggested by the Energy, Materials, and Natural Resources Department. Bonds are tax-exempt and will be repaid through energy cost savings.
Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund
Value:Varies
The New Mexico state government manages a revolving loan fund to support drinking water access, quality, and safety. Repaid funds immediately "revolve" to another borrower, allowing for perpetual state investment and continued support through interest. By default, at least 25% of the loan principal is forgiven, effectively taking the form of a grant. Up to 75% of the principal may be forgiven if a project aids low-income/disadvantaged communities or supports water and energy conservation efforts.
Local Option - Renewable Energy Financing District/Solar Energy Improvement Special Assessments
Value:Varies
Cities and counties in New Mexico may join Renewable Energy Financing Districts (REFDs), the state's version of a property-assisted clean energy (PACE) program. With the usual exception of single-family homes or multi-family residential property under five units, any property may apply for specialized energy efficiency loans through their local REFD. Loans carry a maximum principal of 40% of a property's assessed value. They are offered at low interest rates and secured through loss reserve funds. Repayment takes the form of a property tax lien senior to mortgages; this means should the borrower sell their property, the new owner will be responsible for continuing loan payments. Additional information is available from local REFDs.
Gross Receipts Tax Exemption for Sales of Wind and Solar Systems to Government Entities
Value:Varies
In New Mexico, equipment used as part of a wind turbine or to otherwise generate wind power for a government agency is exempt from state gross receipt tax. Solar PV and active/passive solar thermal systems are also exempt as of 2010. Gross receipt tax is essentially equivalent to corporate sales tax in other states. Incentives are applied at the time of purchasing the equipment. Additional information is available from the state revenue department.
New Mexico Solar Easements & Rights Laws
Value:Varies
New Mexico has adopted two separate "solar rights" laws protecting access to sunlight for solar panel owners. Under the Solar Rights Act of 1977, it is unlawful for property owners neighboring a solar array to purposefully obstruct solar access by placing new structures or vegetation. Under the Solar Recordation Act of 1983, property owners may obtain a "solar right" from their county government. Solar rights act similar to easements and are tied to the property's deed. Later statutes overruled local ordinances and association covenants banning solar panels, with exceptions made for historic districts.
System Benefits Charge
Value:Varies
In 2002, New Mexico established a System Benefits Fund to support clean energy adoption and education with an emphasis on serving low-income populations, local/county governments, and school districts. The fund is supported by a surcharge on all customer energy bills in the state. Utilities may earn grants to build new solar/wind farms, hydroelectric installations, or biomass plants. Grants may also fund line extensions for low-income neighborhoods and rural or remote areas. Additional information is available from the New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department.
Alternative Energy Product Manufacturers Tax Credit
Value:Varies
Businesses in New Mexico that produce components for renewable or clean energy devices, including hybrid and electric vehicles, may be eligible to claim the Alternative Energy Product Manufacturers tax credit. Both end-use products and components supplied to end-use product manufacturers are eligible for the incentive. Credit amount is determined on an individual basis by the state Taxation and Revenue department; at maximum, it will be 5% of the business's expenditures. The credit will be awarded on the condition that the company creates new full-time jobs dependent on its expenditures. Additional information is available from the NMTRD website.
Are solar panels worth it in New Mexico?
Intending to stay in your house beyond the solar payback period? Solar panels are a smart investment in Alamogordo. In Alamogordo, NM, a 5 kW solar system installation might save you $8,964.2 on average over 20 years, with a typical break even point of 12 years.
The cost of not having solar panels in Alamogordo, NM
Forgoing solar panels or an alternative backup energy source means you'll miss out on the savings mentioned above and be fully dependent on your electric utility for power. The news has recently shown us that complete reliance on your utility provider isn't always the best idea.
Over the past few years, customers in Alamogordo have encountered an average of 1.01 utility outages each year. Typically, outages have an average duration of 119.12 minutes. However, during significant events such as tornadoes, equipment failure, or wildlife damage, these times can drastically increase.
A solar panel system with (or without) a backup battery could ease the stress of future outages you encounter.
Power Outages
Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Otero County.
What impacts the cost of solar panels in Alamogordo, NM?
Your Energy Needs - Investing in larger solar panel systems costs more upfront, but the price per watt is decreased as the system size increases. Consumers often realize that installing a solar system that can replace their entire electric bill is advantageous, ensuring maximum savings.
Make & Model - Similar to other industries, the solar energy sector offers a variety of solar panel and mounting equipment brands and designs. Taking into account the system preferences that your installer may have, it's essential to choose a recommended company. Buyers who prioritize superior equipment typically enjoy a superior long-term experience.
Solar Panel Type - For good reason why monocrystalline panels are now the industry standard. Even with a higher cost, this technology yield more energy. The majority of installers opt for panels constructed using this material.
Your Property - Every home and property differs in its own way. Challenges such as trees, sloping terrain, or other barriers can increase the difficulty of installing solar panels. Today, many solar installers can leverage satellite imagery to assess your home and incorporate these aspects into the initial cost estimate.
Labor Rates - Different companies pay varied wages to their employees, and these expenses are eventually borne by the consumers. Businesses often receive higher reviews for their services and customer service when they pay higher wages.
Permitting & Interconnection - Local permitting and utility interconnection fees, which differ by region, will affect your final installation cost. Reputable local installers will integrate these numbers into your first quotes to avoid any surprises.
Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
Consulting on all things solar related.
Alamogordo, NM Solar Panel Cost FAQs
As recorded in September, 2024, the standard cost for solar panel installations in Alamogordo, NM is $3.53/W. For a 5 kW solar panel system, the total cost in Alamogordo, NM after federal tax credits is around $12,355.
If you live in New Mexico, you can find 13 rebates and incentives through different utilities and government agencies. Furthermore, the majority of people qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.
Choosing to pay cash ensures the most savings, but today there are several financing options for solar panels that are also cost-effective. Installers typically partner with financing companies and will incorporate this information into your initial quotes.
Yes, the typical duration for 5 kW solar panel systems to pay back their cost in Alamogordo, NM is 12 years, with electricity savings estimated at $8,964.2 over 20 years.